IMF says has confidence in Lagarde despite abuse of power probeMarch 28, 2013 - 21:05 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said it continues to have "confidence" in its managing director Christine Lagarde, BBC News reported. An IMF spokesman said the fund's board backed Lagarde despite a French inquiry into alleged abuses of power. The probe relates to her time as French finance minister and her involvement in the payment of compensation to businessman Bernard Tapie. Lagarde, who took over as IMF chief in 2011, denies any wrongdoing. Her Paris apartment was searched by police investigators last week. "The executive board has been briefed on this matter, including recently, and continues to express its confidence in the managing director's ability to effectively carry out her duties," said IMF spokesman Gerry Rice at a press conference on Thursday, March 28. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Titus, Bilirakis lead legislation to sanction Azerbaijani war criminals Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the bipartisan legislation. Armenia: Defense Ministry warns against involving army in political processes The Ministry’s statement came after a video surfaced online, showing soldiers joining the protests in Tavush. Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. |